Meaning: Isaac Bashevis Singer, a Nobel Prize-winning author, made this statement to emphasize the idea that children's literature is not just for its intended audience of children, but also for the adults who play a significant role in shaping the reading experiences of children. Singer suggests that parents are "serious children," implying that they possess a childlike curiosity and imagination that can be awakened and nourished through the act of reading children's literature.

Singer's words highlight the intergenerational significance of children's literature. While the primary audience for children's books is, of course, the young readers themselves, the impact and influence of these books extend to the adults in their lives. Parents, in particular, often play a crucial role in introducing and fostering a love of reading in their children. By engaging with the literature that their children read, parents not only enhance their own understanding and enjoyment but also strengthen the bond with their children through shared literary experiences.

Furthermore, Singer's statement underscores the idea that children's literature has the power to resonate with readers of all ages. The themes, emotions, and moral lessons found in children's books are often universal and timeless, appealing to the child within every adult. The best children's literature possesses a depth and complexity that allows it to be appreciated by readers across different stages of life. By recognizing the value of children's literature for adults, Singer encourages a broader and more inclusive appreciation of these literary works.

Singer's assertion also raises the importance of the role of parents as mediators between their children and literature. When parents actively engage with the books their children read, they can provide valuable guidance, context, and interpretation. Through discussions and shared reading experiences, parents can help their children understand and appreciate the themes, characters, and messages in the books they encounter. In doing so, parents not only enrich their own understanding of children's literature but also contribute to the development of their children's literary and critical thinking skills.

Moreover, Singer's quote emphasizes the idea that children's literature has the potential to evoke nostalgia and rekindle the sense of wonder and imagination in adults. When parents read or revisit children's books from their own childhood, they often experience a profound sense of connection to their past and a renewed appreciation for the enduring impact of these stories on their lives. This connection to childhood memories can also serve as a powerful motivator for parents to actively engage with children's literature, fostering a sense of shared joy and discovery within the family.

In conclusion, Isaac Bashevis Singer's quote "We write not only for children but also for their parents. They, too, are serious children" underscores the multifaceted significance of children's literature. It highlights the intergenerational appeal of children's books, the role of parents as mediators and interpreters of literature for their children, and the capacity of children's literature to evoke nostalgia and imagination in adults. By recognizing the value of children's literature for both children and their parents, Singer emphasizes the enduring impact and universal relevance of these literary works across generations.